Pence defeated Democrat John Gregg and Libertarian Rupert Boneham Tuesday after a campaign in which he started as the better-known candidate and had a strong fundraising advantage.

Pence has been in Congress for the past 12 years, gaining national prominence as a social conservative. But he focused his campaign on economic issues and brushed off attacks that he'll push contentious social issues.

He will succeed Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels, who is barred by state law from seeking a third term.

Republicans entered Tuesday's election holding strong majorities in both chambers of the General Assembly and all the elected state government offices.